Pitt's Thomas puts best knee forward

Wednesday

PITTSBURGH — Beaver Falls graduate Todd Thomas has had almost as many ACL tears to his left knee as he’s had college football coaches. For a Pitt football player, that’s a lot.

Thomas redshirted as a freshman in 2010 after an ACL tear in October forced him to undergo surgery. He played in 10 games the following season, starting six at outside linebacker, but tore the ligament a second time. He returned to the field after missing just two games, putting off surgery until after the regular season.

His second recovery cost him the first month of last season, but Thomas returned to play in nine games. He recorded 59 tackles, five pass break-ups, an interception and a blocked punt, which he recovered for a touchdown. Despite the numbers, the recovery process continued throughout 2012.

Now with spring practice in full swing, Thomas feels as though something is missing.

“My knee brace is off,” the redshirt junior said with a grin that stretched from ear to ear. “I’m running. I’m feeling good right now. I am about 90 percent and I’m moving along. By the time the season comes, I’ll be 100 percent and feeling good.”

Now that he’s nearing full health, the coaching staff is depending on Thomas to be a playmaker this fall. His combination of speed and athleticism make him a unique weapon from his will linebacker spot.

“I do think he’s moving better,” said defensive coordinator Matt House. “I like two things (about Todd): He’s a physical guy and he’s got a great attitude right now, and we’ve just got to keep building on that.”

There are two things that Thomas likes as well. One is his now-healthy left knee.

“It started with my knee first,” Thomas said. “Once that got going, my comfort level just sky-rocketed, and I just feel more comfortable all the way around. I totally trust my knee now. I’m confident.”

The other is Pitt’s 2013 schedule, which opens with a nationally televised Labor Day home game against Florida State.

“I’m anxious,” he admits. “Labor Day. Florida State. Prime time. Only game on television. That’s a big game right there. We have to come out and perform.”

Never miss a story

Choose the plan that's right for you.
Digital access or digital and print delivery.